A team devoted to the teams

Paul Thoma serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the SFF to guide the organization in its mission towards its vision of ensuring no SEAL walks alone after the SEAL Teams. “PT” graduated with BUD/S Class 286 and served at SEAL Team Seven where he did 2 deployments and multiple augments in support of the Global War on Terrorism, Operation Enduring Freedom, War in Africa, and the War in Iraq. After benefitting from the organization’s programs and resources during his transition from active duty he made it his goal to ensure that every SEAL has the opportunity to have the same wholistic support as they make their way into their next team, career or any environment they choose to operate in. He has a passion for storytelling and actively works in the film and television industry as an actor, writer and producer. PT brings those skills & resources to the SFF to help communicate the impacts of combat and the transition from active duty into the civilian world after 20 years of war.

Anthony Page joined the SFF in January 2022 to lead the SFF’s mentoring program and intake operations. Anthony graduated with BUD/S Class 254 and served at SEAL Team Two where he did three deployments and finished his career at TRADET as a SOUC Instructor. Anthony started a consulting company advising several companies and organizations on strategy, leadership development and culture. Additionally, Anthony co-created the drug and alcohol prevention program for youth sports encompassing lifestyle choices that effect human performance that is currently incorporated in high school and colleges throughout the United States. In his most recent role, Anthony served as Warrior Challenge Mentor, New York/New Jersey, training, and screening potential candidate to enter the pipeline to become a SEAL.

Joey Fio joined the SEAL Future Foundation (SFF) in August 2021, bringing a wealth of expertise to oversee its Health Support Program. He transformed it into a unique, bespoke treatment and therapy initiative addressing all challenges associated with “Operator Syndrome.” As Chief Programs Officer, Joey remains unwaveringly committed to resolving the issues related to military-to-civilian transition and aims to replicate these groundbreaking programs for service members nationwide.

Joey’s journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where his competitive spirit as a wrestler laid the foundation for a distinguished career in both the military and civilian sectors. Following college, he pursued a rigorous path by graduating with BUD/S Class 289 and dedicated a decade to SEAL Team Five. During his deployments to CENTCOM and PACOM, he displayed exemplary leadership and valor, earning numerous awards for his distinguished service.

After service, Joey transitioned seamlessly to the private sector as an operating partner at a boutique private equity firm in San Diego, California. There, he specialized in acquisitions and mergers, expertly guiding the firm’s growth by acquiring service-based small businesses. His strategic leadership and comprehensive expertise make him an invaluable asset in championing the SFF’s mission to support the health and success of transitioning SEALs.

Emily Lees joined the SEAL Future Foundation in July of 2020. Emily is passionate about helping SEALs and families pivot from the military to civilian life, and she brings a unique perspective to the team as the spouse of an active duty SEAL for the last 14 years. She and her family have lived in San Diego, Germany, New Hampshire and Stennis, MS, while assigned to multiple Naval Special Warfare commands. Prior to joining SFF, she worked at a military-focused nonprofit, and was an elementary school teacher in San Diego.

Emily received a BS in Business Administration from the University of Louisville, where she was an NCAA swimmer. She also received a MA from the University of Southern California.

Anne Marie Phelps joined the SEAL Future Foundation in January of 2018 and brings with her a background in nonprofits, event coordination and special projects planning. Anne Marie realized her passion for nonprofits during a college internship at Best Buddies Arizona where she served on the event committee for 3 years. Prior to joining the SFF, Anne Marie was the Program Manager & Coordinator for the San Diego Brain Tumor Foundation where she was proud to help coordinate major events. Between living on Coronado Island and having cousins who are Navy SEALs, Anne Marie has a strong connection to the SEAL Community and is honored to serve through the SFF.

Anne Marie received a BS in Business Management from the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University.

David Bruchu joined the SFF Team in September of 2022. He was BUD/s class 303 before becoming a combat medic and joining SEAL TEAM FIVE where he deployed to Iraq and the Pacific Theatre. He finished his active duty time as an instructor at the Special Operations Combat Medic Course, culminating ten years in the Navy. David has a Bachelor’s of Science in National Security Studies. His primary role at the SFF is helping SEAL’s recover from physical injuries and optimize their overall health.

Hoagie (Justin Hoagland) is the Director of Mental Health Services and joined the SEAL Future Foundation in January 2022. He is a combat veteran and retired Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Operator. He served as a NSW combatives instructor and NSW Sniper instructor. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis from Norwich University. He is pursuing a Master of Science in Sport Psychology from National University.

Justin draws from his broad background and educates transitioning Navy SEALs about the health challenges caused by operator syndrome. He has engaged with over 500 Special Operators in long-format conversations. He has over 2,000 hours of conversational experience speaking with veterans and their family members. Hoagie has honed his skills as a coach and speaker. He is dedicated to continued professional development and applying these skill sets to continue serving the brotherhood.

Jerrod Arnold joined the SFF Team in November 2021. He was in BUD/S Class 251 before becoming a combat medic and joining SEAL Team 2 where he deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Europe. He finished his active duty time as cadre at TRADET-2 Assault Cell, culminating with 9 years in the Navy. Jerrod has a Bachelor’s of Arts in Biblical Studies with a minor in ancient Greek and Hebrew, as well as a Master’s of Divinity from Beeson Divinity School. His roles at SFF include conducting intake calls and mentorship for our Career, Education, and Community Pillars. He also administers SFF’s Community App and leads our weekly Campfire Chat and Bi-weekly Bible Study.

Aaron Paseur joined the SEAL Future Foundation (SFF) in October 2024 as the Director of Partnerships, bringing over 12 years of experience in Naval Special Warfare and a strong background in business development. A graduate of BUD/S Class 295, Aaron served with SEAL Team 8, completing four deployments across Africa, Europe, and Central/South America, and later led the Lead Combat Swimmer cell at Naval Special Warfare Advanced Training. After separating from the Navy in 2022, he has since focused on advising defense technology companies and expanding strategic partnerships in the private security sector. Aaron also serves as the East Coast Community Liaison for One Summit, a nonprofit devoted to supporting families impacted by pediatric cancer.

His dedication to building meaningful relationships, solving difficult problems, and serving his SEAL brothers and the broader community has led him to the SEAL Future Foundation, where he is committed to creating impactful collaborations that drive resources to support SEALs in their transition to civilian life.

Nick joined the SEAL Future Foundation in November of 2021. While nearing the completion of his undergrad at Temple University, Nick’s collegiate experiences had allowed him to uncover a strong sense of patriotism and personal desire to serve others. After seeing a social posting of an internship opportunity with SFF back in June of 2020, Nick had been a part of the team in intern/volunteer capacity. Nick’s true care for the SEAL community and dedication to serve the great warriors within it has allowed him to gradually take on more responsibility and ultimately earn the right to become a full-time teammate of the SFF leadership team.

Nick received a BS in Sport Business from the School of Sport, Tourism, and Hospitality Management at Temple University.

Leah Crosby joined the SEAL Future Foundation in January 2023. She was introduced to the SEAL community through her involvement in the Matthew Axelson Foundation, and brings over 10 years in experience with special projects and nonprofits.She has passion for community, health and wellness, and country.

She has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Johannie joined the SEAL Future Foundation in November 2023. With over 20+ years in not- for-profit and governmental accounting with an emphasis on compliance monitoring for federal, state and local grants. Johannie has a passion for working with organizations that “work for good” in providing much needed services to improve the lives of people they serve. Prior to working at SFF, she worked with social service agencies that provided mental health care, subsidized after-school care programs and other services to children and families.

Johannie obtained her BS in Accounting from the University of South Florida.

Debbie Lehr-Lee joined the SEAL Future Foundation in July of 2016.  Debbie became involved with SFF as a way to give back and redirect her motherly worries about her active duty SEAL son.  For her, it is important to know that her son will have the support he needs to successfully transition from the Teams when that time comes.  She co-designed and helped launch SFF ‘s coaching program and is proud of how the cohort of very experienced ICF certified coaches continue to raise the bar in services provided.

Prior to joining SFF, Debbie spent 20 years in various marketing functions within Intel Corporation while being actively involved in school volunteer organizations.  As her encore career, Debbie became an ICF certified coach with a passion of helping high school and college student refine the life skills they needed to be high functioning and happy adults. Debbie currently holds over 1200 hours of ICF Professional Certified coaching hours.

Debbie received her MBA from UC Berkeley, BS from UC Davis and her coaching certification from IPEC.

Jason Odden joined the SEAL Future Foundation in 2024 with a wealth of experience in leadership, mentorship, and strategic development. With nearly three decades of professional experience, Jason has dedicated much of his career to guiding teams through complex challenges, fostering growth, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. His expertise lies not only in business strategy and technology but also in building strong, resilient communities.

As the Volunteer Mentor Program Manager, Jason is instrumental in creating a supportive environment that helps veterans navigate new career paths and personal challenges. His approach is deeply rooted in understanding the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they receive the personalized guidance necessary for success.

In addition to his work with the SEAL Future Foundation, Jason is driving growth in a high growth AI incubator and serves as an advisor and board member to early stage startups,  and serves as a mentor/coach with the University of California, Irvine’s New Venture Competition, supporting emerging entrepreneurs.